This is my scientific illustration of Pinus sylvestris (Scots Pine), one of my favourite trees and a true icon of the Scottish landscape. I created this piece using an ink plate technique to capture this fantastic species’ intricate details and unique features. Here are some of the key elements I chose to highlight:
- Branch (a): A section showcasing the arrangement of needles and the tree’s distinctive growth pattern.
- Strobilus (b): The male pollen cones, small and cylindrical, are crucial for the tree’s reproduction.
- Megastrobilus (c): A two-year-old female cone depicting a mature, seed-bearing structure.
- Forming Female Cones (d): Early stages of cone development, emphasizing the tree’s reproductive cycle.
- Emerging Female Cones (e): Newly developing cones at the tips of branches.
- Needles (g): Characteristic paired needles, which are long, slender, and slightly twisted.
- Seeds (h): Delicate seeds equipped with wings for wind dispersal.
- Tree Forms (i, j): Contrasting examples of a tall, fast-growing plantation tree and a shorter, resilient hill-grown specimen.
- Bark (k): The distinctive, reddish-brown bark that peels in plates, a hallmark of the species.
I’ve always found the Scots Pine breathtakingly beautiful. Every detail—from the textured bark to the delicate cones and needles—adds to its charm. It’s a tree deeply rooted in the Scottish landscape and a personal favourite to study and illustrate.
If you are interested in commissioning a unique personal or professional project, please get in touch here. You can also explore my watercolour artwork featuring other botanical subjects in my gallery.